Sponsored Studios

The Richmond Institute for Design + Innovation (RIDI) at Western Michigan University partners with companies to run sponsored studio projects. Each engagement frames a real industry challenge for a cohort of advanced Industrial Design students and, when relevant, Interior Architecture + Design students. A typical collaboration runs across a 16‑week semester and is tailored to your market, goals, and innovation pipeline. The standard sponsorship is $25,000 per semester, which supports faculty time, materials, technology resources, and structured student engagement. Alternate formats—including shorter workshops, competitions, or multi‑school collaborations—are also possible.

Value for your team

Sponsored studios offer fresh perspectives and research‑driven concept development. They provide early visibility into the next generation of design talent and establish a direct recruiting pipeline. These projects foster meaningful relationships with faculty and students, creating mentorship opportunities while demonstrating your company’s commitment to education and community engagement.

Value for students

Students gain real‑world experience working with a client, managing deadlines, and participating in structured critiques. They receive direct feedback from company mentors, helping them develop professional behaviors and expectations. The result is portfolio‑ready work and increased confidence as they prepare to enter the field.

Who’s involved

The core project team includes advanced Industrial Design students. When appropriate, Interior Architecture + Design students also participate, especially when the challenge involves environments, retail or showroom design or spatial experience.

For information contact Michael Kahwaji.